Senate approves telecommunications amendment after mixed floor debate

The Utah Senate approved Substitute Senate Bill 13, a telecommunications amendment, following floor explanation of the bill’s limited deregulatory flexibilities and a recorded roll call vote.

Senator Steele, sponsor of the substitute, told the Senate that after yesterday’s amendments he had not been approached with further changes and called the question on passage. Senator Blackcomb, who explained his vote, said the bill is difficult but "perhaps we have something that is somewhat in the middle of the road," giving some authority to the Public Service Commission while not guaranteeing rate increases. "I think this bill is probably one of the toughest ones of all of them to know just exactly what to do here..." Blackcomb said, noting he would vote aye because he believed the bill struck a balance.

Senator Sarah Beulah (floor remarks) explained her nay vote, citing concerns that earlier negotiated agreements among competitors and the public service commission could be altered and that investors have relied on prior arrangements.

After discussion, the Senate held a roll‑call vote. The chamber recorded 22 ayes, 4 nays and 3 absent; the bill will be sent to the House for consideration.

Floor comments emphasized that the bill would not itself set rates — the PSC would remain the body responsible for rate decisions — but that the statute could change investment and negotiation dynamics in the telecommunications marketplace. Supporters stressed the need for flexibility in a rapidly changing industry; critics warned of unintended consequences for consumers and competitors.

The Senate record shows several members offering brief explanations of their vote, including both caution and support for the approach in the substitute.